Judge: Ruling on Former Gov. McDonnell Requests Expected Tuesday

A judge could rule as early as Tuesday on whether or not to dismiss most of the federal corruption charges pending against former Governor Bob McDonnell and his wife.

The McDonnells are accused of taking more than $160,000 in gifts and loans from former Star Scientific CEO Jonnie Williams in exchange for promoting the company's dietary supplement.

The former first family appeared for the fourth time in Richmond Federal Court Tuesday.

Their defense team wants most of their 14 charges thrown out, and has requested separate trials for Mr. and Mrs. McDonnell. Judge James Spencer is expected to rule on those, and other motions, as early as Tuesday.

The defense says the McDonnells never took "official action" to help Williams, and thus should have those charges dismissed. Federal prosecutors say that's something that should be left up to a jury.

The McDonnells are scheduled for a six-week jury trial beginning July 28.